Hit and Run Driver Arrested in Plano

Nancy Trimble on

A hit and run driver has been arrested in connection to the death of a woman in an accident along Highway 75 near Campbell Road on Christmas Day.

Police have arrested Atheer Latif, 23, of Plano, and charged him with criminally negligent homicide in connection to the death of Madhavi Meharunkar, 63.

Investigators said that Latif’s vehicle crashed into another vehicle carrying a family that was on its way to a family holiday celebration.

“I was supposed to come here and we were supposed to enjoy a beautiful party and now that’s all been lost,” said Vinay Dhande, the victim’s nephew.

Eyewitnesses to the accident said that Latif, rather than rendering assistance to the victims in the fatal crash as required by law, did everything he could to flee the scene of the accident.

Authorities indicate that Latif did eventually turn himself in to police. He was arrested and charged in the incident.

The accident is still currently under investigation. Distracted driving and driving under the influence have not been ruled out.

The holiday season should be a time of being with friends, family and loved ones and sharing the spirit of the season. Unfortunately, accidents can happen at the worst of times and can turn what should be a time of happiness and celebration into a tragedy.

It is clear that Atheer Latif broke the law when he fled the scene of the accident. The law in the state of Texas is clear: If you are involved in an accident, you must stay at the scene of a crash until a law enforcement officer allows you to leave. This is especially true of accidents where there are serious injuries or fatalities involved.

Because this driver left the scene, any jury will more than likely side with the family of the victim once they are brought to justice. For the moment, however, the family of this lady will have to face the nightmare of having to try to piece together their lives back together again.

If you or a loved one ever finds themselves as the victim in any kind of an accident, including a hit-and-run accident, you need an attorney who is going to work on your side. After you’ve seen a doctor, call our offices as soon as possible. We have years of experience in personal injury and accident lawsuits in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and can get your accident lawsuit started right away

We understand how medical costs, time you have to take off the job or away from school and the tragedy of funeral expenses can leave families feeling overwhelmed at a loss as to what to do next. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation and legal analysis.